Patricia Grantham

A Shelter

An old abandoned building stood alone across the streetA haven for the homeless is where they always would meetEveryone gathered together for a place to lay their headSafer to be under cover than having to sleep outside instead

Just to keep their bodies warm they try to stay huddled togetherA shelter from the rain and snow or any kind of stormy weatherThe tales that are always told is always 'what could have been'All their family and loved ones they haven't seen since when

Warming all their hands and feet in front of an old smoky fireWearing of shoes so worn that had withstood all the muck and mireMany times these words were spoken 'so just come whatever may'Always living life on the edge or whether they'll see another day

Then the moon or stars at night loomed near like a silent friendThe long and dreary days of survival seemed never to have an endAs the sun begins to set they can still see a faint light that glowsIf ever there was an end to their plight only the homeless one knows

What do you think this poem is about?

Comments about this poem (A Shelter by Patricia Grantham )

A roof over the head is a dream to almost all of the human beings. But sometimes missing. Here the poet beautifully created a poem on the helplessness of the poor who finds a shelter in the abandoned building which I felt so nice.
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A beautiful poem describing the helpless condition of the destitute. It tells Pat that how much you are compassionate to them. I like one line in their voice saying... 'so just come whatever may'.....
STILL SOME HOPE OF RAY.... lovely.
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A caring and compassionately written poem, deserving a higher rating.Your description of their
plight was truthful and troubling. There could go you or I.A needed reminder in these cold, cold
times -10
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When we see such people, the thought that should pass through our mind must be this...' this could have been my fate as well... but fortunately I am blessed with a sweet home with so many loved ones around'

The tales that are always told is always what could have been.
The reality of homeless and downtrodden comes across vividly through this lovely truthful write.
Very well written, Patricia. Thanks for sharing.
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